Mothers' Behaviors that Promote Prosocial Behaviors in Children

Abstract

Past research suggests that development of prosocial behavior is correlated with positive outcomes for children. Parents play a significant role in the development of children's prosocial behaviors. The present study investigated mothers' behaviors that may promote prosocial behaviors in their children. Specifically, the present research examines the associations, cross-sectionally and longitudinally, of four maternal behaviors -- 1) time spent doing chores with children, 2) mothers' philanthropic behavior, 3) mothers' volunteering, and 4) mothers' talking to children about making donations -- with child prosocial behavior. Mothers' warmth was tested as a potential moderator variable. It was hypothesized that each of the maternal behaviors would be positively related to prosocial behaviors in their children, and that mothers' warmth would moderate (enhance) the relationship between the parent behaviors and children's prosocial behavior. Results indicated that doing chores with children was significantly and positively associated with children's prosocial behavior. Other results are discussed